1. Best overall carry-on luggage: Monos Carry-On

Thoughtfully designed for modern travelers, the Monos Carry-On blends minimalist aesthetics with reliable performance. Its aerospace-grade polycarbonate shell, ultra-quiet spinner wheels, and intuitive interior make it a standout for short trips or weekend getaways.

Key features

• Capacity: 8.0/10
• Ease of transport: 9.3/10
• Construction quality: 9.5/10
• Design and functionality: 9.2/10

Highlights

• Elegant protection: A lightweight, hard-shell exterior that resists scratches and protects your essentials.
• Smooth maneuverability: 360° spinner wheels engineered for quiet, seamless movement.
• Optimized interior: A compression pad, divider, and laundry bag make it easy to stay organized.
• Premium materials: Built with recycled polycarbonate and vegan leather detailing.

Specs

• Weight: At 7.1 lb, it’s slightly heavier than fabric alternatives.
• Size: Meets most airline carry-on restrictions, but check dimensions for budget carriers.

Pair it with our Compressible Packing Cubes or Check-In companion for a fully coordinated travel system.

2. Best functional carry-on: Travelpro Platinum Elite 21" Spinner

The Travelpro Platinum Elite is built for organization. Designed with professionals in mind, this softshell carry-on offers smooth mobility, expandable compartments, and TSA-friendly features – all wrapped in a sleek ballistic nylon exterior.

Key features

• Capacity: 7.6/10
• Ease of transport: 9.5/10
• Construction quality: 9.1/10
• Design and functionality: 9.5/10

Highlights

• Expandable interior: Smart compression keeps contents neat without overstuffing.
• Removable garment folder: Ideal for business travelers and wrinkle-free packing.
• Magnetic wheels: Self-aligning spinner wheels for a smooth, silent glide.

Specs

• Weight: At 8.1 lb, it’s heavier than most hardshell options.
• Size: Slightly larger than some airline limits – worth checking in advance.

3. Best value hardshell: Samsonite Freeform Spinner

Lightweight and dependable, the Samsonite Freeform offers standout value in a hardshell carry-on. At just 6.6 lb with 41.2 L of capacity, it’s ideal for short trips and light packers looking for an affordable, reliable option.

Pros

• Lightweight: One of the lightest in its class.
• Spacious interior: Expandable, with cross-straps and a divider panel.
• Affordable: Budget-friendly pricing for a major luggage brand.

Cons

• Scratch-prone: Exterior may show wear over time.
• Minimal pockets: Basic interior with limited organization.

4. Best value softshell: SwissGear Sion 21" Softside

The SwissGear Sion is a durable softshell option that maximizes interior space without breaking the bank. It’s practical, affordable, and easy to roll – a smart choice for occasional travelers.

Pros

• Spacious with front-access pockets
• Removable toiletry pouch
• Affordable entry-level price

Cons

• Heavier than comparable softshells
• Oversized for some carriers
• Basic materials and zippers

5. Most affordable hardshell: Amazon Basics 20" Spinner

Reliable and cost-effective, this Amazon Basics spinner covers the essentials. With a minimalist design and basic interior, it’s perfect for infrequent travel or as a secondary suitcase.

Pros

• Budget-friendly: One of the most affordable carry-ons available.
• Durable shell: Lightweight polycarbonate build.
• Simple interior: Includes basic divider and compression straps.

Cons

• No integrated lock
• Limited long-term durability
• Wobbly trolley handle at full extension

6. Best Gear Transporter: Osprey Daylite Wheeled Duffel 40

Versatile and lightweight, the Osprey Daylite Duffel blends the convenience of wheels with the flexibility of a duffel. It’s perfect for gear-heavy trips or outdoor travel.

Pros

• Convertible from roller to backpack
• All-terrain wheels
• Recycled, weather-resistant materials

Cons

• Flimsy pull handle
• Moderate water resistance
• Can tip when overpacked

7. Best backpack alternative: Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L

This travel backpack meets TSA carry-on standards and offers the versatility of both a softshell bag and structured backpack. With padded straps, compression, and laptop storage, it’s a smart choice for minimalist travelers.

Pros

• Comfortable, ergonomic straps
• Reinforced structure for packing ease
• Dedicated tech compartments

Cons

• Bulky for some travelers
• No torso-length adjustability

8. Best duffel carry-on: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel

The 55L Black Hole Duffel is rugged, water-resistant, and designed for adventurers. It’s flexible enough to compress, expand, and adapt to just about any travel situation.

Pros

• Made from recycled 900D ripstop fabric
• Multiple zippered compartments
• Removable backpack straps

Cons

• Doesn’t retain shape when empty
• Snap handles can be finicky

9. Best premium hardshell: Rimowa Original Cabin

The iconic aluminum Rimowa Cabin is engineered for longevity and prestige. With its signature grooves and metallic shell, it’s a favorite among luxury travelers.

Pros

• Aluminum body with dual latch locks
• Premium spinner wheels
• Flex Divider system for optimized packing

Cons

• High price point
• Heavier than most carry-ons
• Prone to scratches

10. Top premium softshell: Briggs & Riley Baseline Spinner

The Briggs & Riley Baseline is built for business travel and performance. It expands, compresses, and keeps your garments wrinkle-free thanks to its suiter and garment panels.

Pros

• CX compression-expansion system
• Exterior USB pocket and SmartLink strap
• High-grade ballistic nylon shell

Cons

• 10.1 lb weight
• Premium price tier

How to choose the right carry-on for you

Trip Length

Trip Type	Suggested Size
Weekend Getaway	Up to 20"
One Week	20–24"
Extended Travel	24–30"

Hard shell vs. soft shell

Feature	Hard Shell	Soft Shell
Durability	High	Medium
Flexibility	Low	High
Weight	Heavier	Lighter
Weather Resistance	Excellent	Limited

Two wheels vs. four

Two-wheel bags offer better performance on rough terrain, while four-wheel spinners offer enhanced maneuverability through tight spaces. Consider how and where you travel most often.

Final thoughts

The best carry-on luggage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re after minimalist design, maximum organization, or rugged flexibility, the right bag depends on your travel style and priorities.

• Need structure? Opt for a hard shell.
• Packing business attire? Look for a suiter or garment panel.
• Looking to invest? Choose premium materials that will last for years.

Wherever your travels take you, the right carry-on should move with you – thoughtfully, elegantly, and reliably.